Arboriculture

Arboriculture

Is the practice and science of managing, planning and the care of trees and woody plants.

Arboriculture is primarily focused on amenity trees and plants within modified landscapes, including private yards, Council parks and reserves and businesses.

Arborists

Arborists are professional men and women who undertaken the practice, planning and care of trees. Daily activities include tree maintenance, tree removal, planning and reporting, transplanting and planting, storm damage, pest and disease identification and management, and hazard and risk management.

Hiring an Arborist

Using a qualified and reputable arborist safeguards you with local and national government rules, biosecurity requirements and improper works that could hit you financially, legally and have consequences to your trees.

Get at least three written quotes or estimates from different firms. Don’t automatically choose the lowest bidder – the quality of the finished work may be more important in the long run.

Points to consider

How long have they been in business?

Will my work require a consent permit?

Has the contractor got previous references that they can provide?

Will you be using subcontractors on this project?

What types of insurance do they carry?

Check the contractor’s terms and conditions.

Don’t Get Scammed

Not all contractors operate within the law. Here are some tip-offs to potential rip-offs. A less than reputable contractor:

Good, reputable contractors rarely solicit door-to-door or cold call

Only accepts cash payments

Cannot or refuses to produce business cards

Has little or no knowledge of Council rules and regulations

Has minimal or nonexistent business advertising or listings

Pressures you for an immediate decision

Requests up-front payment

Note: NZ Arb does not take responsibility for any work undertaken by its members. Any NZ Arb accredited Approved Contractor is required to have up-to-date liability insurance. Any complaints against NZ Arb members about failing to follow the Association’s Code of Conduct must be made in writing to the Executive Committee or one of its committee members. All complaints must be related to current NZ Arb members.

ABOUT NZ ARB

Encouraging, fostering, improving and educating in all aspects of arboriculture throughout New Zealand.